Caitlan Reese

CAITLAN

GOODNESS and Grace

When Caitlan Reese discovered a lump in her breast in 2019, the then 29-year-old fourth-grade teacher never imagined the diagnosis that would follow: triple-negative breast cancer. This aggressive form of breast cancer, which accounts for only 10 percent of all breast cancer diagnoses, is complicated to treat.

Caitlan’s doctor in Hickory promptly referred her to Levine Cancer Institute (LCI). A destination for triplenegative breast cancer patients, LCI also offers the Sandra Levine Young Women’s Breast Cancer Program, which exists thanks to the generosity of many benefactors, including Sandra and Leon Levine. Tailored to meet the unique needs of women under age 40, the program is the only one of its kind in the Southeast, and one of only four programs in the nation.

Although triple-negative breast cancer has had fewer treatment options compared to other forms of breast cancer, it has been the subject of recent innovations that are changing that. The support of philanthropy is crucial for research that is helping to advance treatments for this and other rare cancers.

“There have been three major drugs approved to treat triple-negative breast cancer, and now we have novel targeted agents that have really made an impact in keeping patients free of disease longer or keeping their disease stable over time,” says Antoinette Tan, MD, chief of breast medical oncology at Levine Cancer Institute, and Caitlan’s oncologist.

When Caitlan’s breast cancer eventually developed into a brain tumor, she became one of the first patients at LCI to undergo a novel treatment method involving targeted radiation treatments. She also joined a Phase 1 clinical trial for a liver tumor that developed, followed by chemotherapy and immunotherapy.

Throughout her journey, Caitlin’s multidisciplinary care team – specializing in medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, neurology, and even fertility – has collaborated to ensure a personalized and holistic approach to her care.

Celebrating a New Chapter in Life

Through her personal blog “Goodness and Grace,” Caitlan chronicles her cancer journey and shares words of gratitude for her blessings, including the day she married Andrew Killian, this February.

“When people are diagnosed with cancer, they have no idea the love they will be showered with through this whole thing. There have been so many sweet moments and memories,” Caitlan says. “That is my prayer for others with cancer: Even when you may feel isolated and alone, remember there are so many people who will walk alongside you and give you so much love and support.”

Caitlan, pictured with her husband, says she's ready to move forward with confidence, love and gratitude.